and allowing taxes to increase on the wealthiest americans. this remains a major sticking point for many republicans. some say a small deal is better than no deal at all but represents a lack of leadership. >> they haven't taken any of the hard measures to bring spending down and reform entitlements and raise more revenues. >> reporter: now, late saturday, negotiators continued to haggle over a number of issues, particularly the issue of taxes. republican leader, mitch mcconnell, was spotted at the capital. when asked if they would reach a deal, he told reporters, quote, i hope so. erica? >> many americans hoping so too. >>> david gregory is moderator of "meet the press." good morning. >> good morning, erica. >> you sat down with an exclusive interview with the president. did he seem optimistic to you? >> he says he is optimistic but really preparing to play hardball. his own approach, plan "b," is a small deal to get an extension of the middle class tax cuts and do very little else. the fight over the debt continues into the new year just wee